What I Read: July ’14

The Language Hoax: Why the World Looks the Same in Any Language by John McWhorter: I picked up this quick read on a whim at the library and I’m so glad I did! McWhorter explores why the human experience is not shaped by language and demonstrates that any language can be used to express any sentiment. Instead, he argues that grammar cannot inform culture but rather it is culture that informs vocabulary. It was a fascinating read-especially since so many of those linguistics and Spanish classes in college highlighted how language was different.

The Serpent’s Promise: The Bible Retold thru Scienc by Steve Jones: Another non-fiction book! As someone who loved her historical Jesus course, this book was totally up my alley. Jones re-imagines many traditional biblical stories using the modern context of science – which, of course, brings it’s own magic to creation, evolution and human biology. While not going to convert any Bible thumpers, I found this to be an incredible eye-opening take on the confluence on some of these powerful belief systems.

Getting Things Done by David Allen: Alas, a work book. While I see the value in his system, I do feel like this book was written for more high powered executives. I do see adding some of these techniques into my professional and personal life but am not sure I can commit to the whole shebang.